Joanna Courtney

Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, CALL Scotland

Biography

Background

I have worked in the field of AAC for 18 years and first became interested while working as a Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) at Capability Scotland’s Corseford School in Kilbarchan. As part of an SLT department highly experienced in the use of AAC, I learned quickly and had the opportunity to work with a wide range of pupils and communication difficulties, developing use of AAC devices within the education setting and at home.

I have always enjoyed creating communication opportunities for People who use AAC (PWUAAC) and bringing people together to learn from and support each other in this area. I started working for CALL Scotland in January 2009 and since then have had the opportunity to work with pupils and staff across the country to help develop individual AAC use and the knowledge and skills of local services. I have a particular interest in consultation with and socialisation of People who use AAC (PWUAAC) and in developing local peer groups and learning opportunities. I also have an active interest in Early Years literacy and in particular using Shared Reading strategies to develop dialogic reading skills in children with communication support needs.

Qualifications

BSc Speech and Language Pathology

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